China has been known for adopting artificial intelligence with wider, open hands. However, for many youngsters, getting a stable office job is becoming difficult. Behind the rapid AI push, the government is trying to prevent a wave of job losses that may bring economic and social anxiety, as per The Wall Street Journal.
The officials became concerned after some of the country’s largest employers reportedly warned that AI may eventually remove a large share of existing jobs. As per the WSJ, Vice Premier He Lifeng met major companies last summer to understand how AI can affect employment.
Beijing Reviews AI’s Rise
Big tech in China reportedly said AI might create new types of jobs in the future. However, it is likely to eliminate nearly 30 per cent of current positions once it is completely adopted. This feedback appeared to alarm officials, which may lead the government to think and warn companies against the wide-scale impact of AI on job loss.
Currently, China is investing heavily in AI to remain competitive with the US and other countries. It is noteworthy that the government is also worried about maintaining social stability as the youth unemployment rate remains high.
The Chinese government’s data on urban people aged between 16 and 24, excluding students, showed 16 per cent unemployment in April. Millions of graduates have been struggling to find white-collar jobs. To eliminate the pressure, the country is also promoting its “AI+” campaign that focuses on sectors such as logistics and manufacturing, where automation may be less politically sensitive than replacing office workers.
The Rise Of AI Causes Anxiety.
As per the WSJ, China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security has told employers to avoid dismissing workers because AI could do their jobs. Companies involved in layoffs are now being asked to explain whether automation played a necessary role in the job cuts.
What lies ahead is that big tech needs to be careful adopting automation. For many workers across the world and India, the AI transition remains personal. Companies need to take note of how societies can embrace AI progress without leaving millions of people unemployed.
